Derby Poker Championship 2011

Dan Shak and Nathan Morris, of Boyz II Men, chopped the winnings in the Phil Helmuth Celebrity Kentucky Derby Poker Championship. At a celebrity filled final table Robert Williamson III finished in 4th place after a crushing bad beat on the river. Robert's quote all night when put to a decision for his chips was "IT IS FOR THE KIDS!!!" The charity tournament sponsored for its 4th year by Phil Helmuth and Denny Crum was to benefit the "Blessings In A Backpack" foundation headed by Stan Curtis of Kentucky/USA Harvest fame.

Over 200 celebrities attended the VIP poker party for Kentucky Derby Fans at the historic Palace Theater in Louisville, Ky. This celebrity charity event is quickly becoming a 'Must Attend' party where Kentucky Derby Jockeys can relax and play poker with fans. A Jockey saddle used in the 2010 Derby and signed by every jockey that rode earned $5000 for the charity. Phil Helmuth, 4 time host, commented that never before had he seen such generosity and kindness from poker players when the final five players all donated their winnings back to the foundation. Ron 'Tater Salad' White was seen early in the event but made a sizable donation before heading to another Derby Party.

With Phil Helmuth acting as Master of Ceremonies the VIP poker tournament play was fast and lose with most of the final table quoting Robert Williamson III who said "FOR THE CHILDREN" every time he put all of his chips in the middle. Poker Night Radio was on hand and broadcast a full recap show featuring Hall of Fame Coach Denny Crum and Coach Travis. Photos of the event were provided by Kentucky Gaming Weekly at http://pokerky.net. Special thanks go out to event sponsors Full Tilt Poker, Jim Beam USA, Southern Gaming Magazine, the Poker Player's Alliance and John Taylor's Louisville Poker Tour.